After completing the big Master Bedroom makeover a few months ago, it was time to start thinking about our next project. When purchasing our home a little over 8 years ago, the lot was definitely one of the biggest selling factors for us. It's a large lot compared to other homes in the neighborhood, and since we're in the back of the neighborhood, there's no one behind us. The yard is a blank slate loaded with potential, but we haven't done much to it yet. So, we began to brainstorm about what we could do... I've shared the patio with you in the past. There is a wonderful brick patio that is partially covered with roof and partially covered with a pergola and huge wisteria. Patio Tour Black and White Striped Rug Looks pretty from a distance, but close up, there was trouble a-brewin'. The pergola was warping and not attached correctly. The wisteria offers great shade, but was very invasive and would pop up everywhere in the yard and flowerbed. The brick border was beginning to come loose. As we began dreaming about the back yard and how we would like to use it, we knew some changes would be in order. So, knowing that we needed to address some issues, we came up with a plan to create a fabulous outdoor living area. Using some ideas from her porch as inspiration, the amazing Emily of Eleven Gables came over and helped me figure out a design that would work. I'll share the plan for where we're headed in a follow-up post, but here's some inspiration that we're drawing from. Eleven Gables Dixie Delights At Home Arkansas via Pinterest This image really doesn't have any elements that our new space will have, it's just one of my all time favorite patios so I wanted to include it! Hmmm, come to think of it, maybe I could squeeze those gingham panels in somewhere. Southern Hospitality In preparation for work to begin, we completely cleared everything away. Yes, that 2x4 is holding up part of the pergola we were concerned about. Classy, right? That's a built in grill at the end that we've used once in our 8 years of living here. It does make a fabulous spray painting stand, though! ;) We've always been limited to what grill we purchased according to what would fit in that little spot where we could tuck away a gas grill. All of the beds are out of control. We knew that change was coming so we've done nothing with them this year. Coming up I'll share our makeover plans with you and give you an update. My Instagram friends got a little sneak peek of what was happening over the weekend... so exciting! Finally, have you had a chance to check out the little design duel that's going on sponsored by Lamps Plus? Here's my last shameless plug to ask you to... Yours truly is one of the challengers, along with my sweet friend Shannon from Burlap and Lace. I sure would appreciate your vote, but I want you to go vote for your favorite vignette so you'll have a chance to win a $500 shopping spree from Lamps Plus! It's a super easy, no signing up for anything one click vote. I hope one of my readers wins big! HURRY, today is the last day to vote! And thanks a million if you already have!